The Tulsa Downtown Partnership recently showed conceptual plans for the Center of the Universe, an odd echo-bounceback site in downtown that’s near an old alignment of Route 66.
According to the Tulsa World:
The proposed improvements include a shade structure over the Center of the Universe, shaded seating near the north and south entrances to the bridge, lawns, a sports park, and a designated area to watch trains pass below.
The renderings also envision public art on the adjacent parking garages as well as temporary and permanent art on the plaza itself.
Jeffrey Pongonis, a principal with the planning and landscape architect firm MKSK, said the proposed enhancements are meant to provide pedestrians easy and unimpeded access between downtown and the Arts District; celebrate art and culture; and preserve the acoustic anomaly.
Retaining the site’s echo effect is one of the key goals of the renovations, which likely will make the project considerably more complex and delicate.
It’s estimated the improvements will cost at least $5 million in public and private money, with construction set to begin in late 2023 or early 2024.
One official involved in the project said it could be finished in a year if all the money were available. If it’s not, it can be built in phases.
The 40-year-old Center of the Universe has shown its age in recent years. A few pavers in the circle are missing, and unsightly, makeshift repairs have been performed with asphalt.
The Center of the Universe never was planned. It’s a happy accident that occurred about four decades ago after renovations on the Boston Avenue pedestrian bridge where the site sits.
Most scientists believe the Center of the Universe is some sort of parabolic sound effect between several buildings and skyscrapers in the area.
The Center of the Universe is on the north side of the bridge between First and Archer streets. The oddity, just a few blocks from the original alignment of the Mother Road, remains a popular side trip for Route 66 travelers. The Route 66 Marathon even has used it as a quick detour on one of its racecourses.
(Image of the Center of the Universe in Tulsa in 2008 by jill, jellidonut…. whatever via Flickr)